If you want to make sure that you don't lose the memories contained in old photographs or film slides, scanning these articles into permanent digital copies might help you sleep better. If you are interested in scanning your visual inventory, you could look into purchasing the necessary equipment and software for your home. Alternately, you could look into whether your employer, if you have one, has the same machinery, or whether nearby businesses offer comparable services.

Should I use a flatbed or a handheld scanner?
In the instance that you have a varied array of devices to choose amongst, you might want to decide on which type best fulfills your scanning needs. A flat scanner, also designated as a "desktop" type, is typically purchased and used for business settings. Industrial-scale scanning, on the other hand, typically involves devices which mechanically move through different files. Additionally, scanners can also be held over photographs or film slides and used to produce PDFs in that way.

How can I create and store high quality electronic files of my visual inventory?
The resolution of an electronic item is the primary means for identifying its visual quality, along with, potentially, its color values. This quality can be measured by "pixels per inch" (ppi) or "samples per inch" (spi). If storage space is at a premium, then file size can be reduced through the technique of compression.

How should I store electronic copies of photographs or films?
After generating a PDF or some other kind of file which you need to preserve, you should transfer it to a computer or some other kind of electronic device. Very commonly, people will purchase USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices, and the required software, to use. USB mass storage presents an inexpensive and viable option.

"Failed to notify me of a change they made to my files converting them to a poor file type, citing my files were bad. Or they mislead customers and print all files to Tiff/eps files and print all colors as as screen, thereby deteriorating quality ..."

Document scanning and related services tend to be offered through store fronts. These stores also offer printing, faxing, and shipping services. Large scale projects are done in centralized locations. They may offer document management and storage solutions. In some cases, mobile workers may take portable and handheld scanners to a client's office.

Most home customers, however, go to a store. These stores serve individuals and small businesses who's volume of work does not justify the extra expense of an all in one unit or independent scanner. Additionally, they may offer digital processing of 35mm film using negative scanners or the printing of digital photos. High quality photo printing, especially enlargements, is also generally offered by camera stores.

Although stores are often self service, workers need to know how to operate scanners and explain their operation to others. They need to know how to use photo alteration and enlargement software as well as how to convert scanned images into PDF and searchable text formats, and to adjust the color balance of pictures. They are often required to explain PDF and formats to customers. Files are often put onto USB drives, and some stores may sell these. USB drives are commonly used to transport all kinds of data. Most scanners used are flatbeds of various sizes. When the company offers document management services they also need to be able to use shredders.

Film and slide scanners are often used by workers specially trained in that area. In addition, transferring images to physical slides is still sometimes done, although digital projectors are now more common. Workers need to know how to clear document feeder jams, without damaging a client's originals. Computer skills are important. Although the paperless office is not a reality, companies continue to work towards it and scanning is an important part of that.